Quick question about Hypo

[EnderG60]

Got a 110g tank that is running as a FOWLR(with sand) at the moment. I know there is ich in the system as the fish have had it before but currently do not show signs.

The owner would like to add a few more fish, but before this wants to treat the tank.

Is it possible to simply lower the salinity in the tank to the required levels for 4-6 weeks, or do the fish need to be removed from the tank?

 

[discocarp]

Almost everything on the rock and in the sand will likely die. This may cause a huge cycle and crash. While this is definitely possible, I wouldn't do it unless it was pretty much dead rock already. Your only problem will be die off, but it might be a huge problem.

 

[EnderG60]

There is no life on the rock besides bacteria which I read would make it through hypo fine.

Im simply exploring options at this point.

 

[discocarp]

Then I wouldn't see a problem if you're sure that's the case.

 

[EnderG60]

alrighty, anyone else care to chime in?

 

[dunc101]

How long has the tank been running? I'm guessing no snails exist in the tank either? Was the rock "live" when bought? The sand bed may have populated with a lot of worms by now and the die off would be detrimental to the fish (ammonia build up).
I would probably caution on the longer side of 6 to 8 weeks. Also, make sure that the salinity does not rise above 1.009 and the refracto has been calibrated appropriately when the "clock starts."

 

[MrTuskfish]

Why not do it right and get HT/QT? (try craigslist). You can go through ich treatment, then re-introduce it with the next fish. If you don't use a QT.